The Cabildo of Lanzarote, through the Area of the Elderly and Intergenerational Relations led by the councillor Nori Machín, has successfully celebrated a new edition of the island walks Ponte en Marcha, which this time took place last Saturday on the island of La Graciosa.
The day, which was attended by 500 senior citizens, started in the Port of Órzola, from where the boat left for the eighth island. Once there, the elderly, together with other members of the organisation and the councillor Nori Machín, toured some of the most emblematic areas and landscapes of Caleta de Sebo in La Graciosa. The walk was guided by the biologist and environmental educator of Senderismo Lanzarote, Nacho Romero, who offered the participants information about the natural environment of the island, thus promoting knowledge of its natural and geographical heritage.
The president of the Cabildo of Lanzarote, Oswaldo Betancort, says that "these walks are being a success in terms of participation while reflecting the commitment of our institution to the promotion of health and well-being of our elders. These activities not only allow participants to stay physically active, but also strengthen social ties and help us to preserve and share the natural heritage we have in both Lanzarote and La Graciosa. For us, it is essential that the elderly feel an active part of our society".
With this new edition, the Cabildo continues to consolidate Ponte en Marcha as one of the most successful initiatives within its Active+Vital Rejuvenation Plan, aimed at promoting health, physical activity and social participation of older people.
The councillor Nori Machín also wanted to highlight the enormous success of this edition, stressing that "each walk of Ponte en Marcha is a celebration of the vitality of our elders. This edition in La Graciosa has been especially significant because it has brought together participants of different ages and backgrounds, demonstrating that physical activity and connection with nature are fundamental to well-being at all stages of life. I would like to thank all the participants for their enthusiasm, as well as the team of volunteers and guides who have made this meeting possible", concluded Machín.
For their part, the participants agreed in pointing out that these walks are much more than a physical activity. Many of them expressed that, in addition to improving their health, these initiatives allow them to enjoy moments of socialisation with friends and colleagues, which is essential for their well-being.
Several participants also stressed the beauty of the landscapes of La Graciosa, which made the walk an even more enriching experience. It should also be noted that during the tour different themes were addressed, such as the population history of La Graciosa, the water supply with the visit to the Fuente de Guasa and the cisterns, as well as the importance of fishing and trades linked to the sea, such as the construction and repair of boats. In addition, other topics were addressed such as biodiversity and the protected natural environments of the Chinijo Archipelago, telling local legends with reference to Ignacio Aldecoa.
